Michigan Governor Declares Energy Emergency to Lower Gas Prices

Executive Action Brings Relief to Michigan Drivers Struggling With Skyrocketing Fuel Costs

LANSING — Governor Gretchen Whitmer has declared an energy emergency in Michigan, temporarily easing fuel blend restrictions in eight counties as gas prices climb to some of their highest levels since 2023.

The governor's executive order, Executive Order 2026-4, suspends the May 1 requirement for lower vapor pressure gasoline in Lenawee and seven other counties, allowing stations to sell higher vapor pressure gasoline that is typically 10 to 20 cents cheaper per gallon.

The move follows a temporary federal waiver issued by the Environmental Protection Agency to address the impact of soaring fuel costs on Michigan families.

Counties Affected

The emergency declaration covers Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw, Livingston, Monroe, St. Clair, and Lenawee counties — areas that collectively serve approximately five million residents and account for nearly half of all drivers in the state.

State officials noted that Michigan drivers outside these eight counties are already permitted to sell cheaper fuel blends without seeking a waiver, meaning those drivers will also see similar savings.

The Upper Peninsula was not included in the order, as those counties were already operating under the EPA waiver before the state's intervention.

Gas Price Context

The announcement comes as Michigan gas prices have reached $3.89 per gallon, according to The Mining Journal — up from $2.99 per gallon just a year ago. That represents a 30 percent spike and the highest prices since the summer of 2023.

Drivers are now paying 97 cents per gallon more than this time last month and 82 cents per gallon more than this time last year.

The surge in prices has been attributed to two main factors: federal tariffs on imported goods and disruptions to global oil markets from the ongoing war in Iran. The conflict has disrupted the Strait of Hormuz, formerly one of the world's biggest shipping corridors for fuel that processed up to 21 million barrels of oil per day.

Governor's Rationale

"Right now, countless Michigan families are struggling with rising costs on the essentials, from groceries to gas," Governor Whitmer said in a statement announcing the order. "As governor, I can't end a war overseas or undo bad policies at the federal level that led to higher gas prices, but I will do what I can to try to give families a break."

The governor framed the energy emergency as an extension of her broader efforts to lower costs for working families and retirees. She connected the gas price relief to her legislative priorities, including continuing tax cuts for working families and retirees, delivering property tax relief for seniors, and establishing a sales tax holiday on school supplies.

How the Order Works

Under the executive order, the May 1 requirement for lower vapor pressure gasoline is suspended in the eight affected counties. Lower vapor pressure gasoline is typically cheaper because it contains less volatile organic compounds that evaporate easily — a requirement designed to reduce air pollution but also to increase fuel costs.

State officials confirmed that the emergency declaration will remain in effect until further notice from the governor's office.

Consumer Protection

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development operates a 24-hour fuel hotline for reporting issues at the pump. Anyone who suspects problems at the pump — such as stations mislabeling fuel or selling contaminated gasoline — is encouraged to call 1-800-MDA-FUEL (1-800-632-3835).

For additional information on MDARD's Motor Fuel Quality Program, consumers can visit the agency's Gasoline Information page.

Recent Gas Price Trends

According to AAA Michigan, the statewide average gas price has dropped to $3.87 per gallon, which is still 60 cents more than last month and 63 cents more than last year. A 15-gallon tank now costs $58 statewide on average.

County-by-county prices show significant variation across the state:

• Highest prices: Marquette ($4.02 per gallon) and Cass County ($4.03 per gallon)
• Lowest prices: Flint ($3.71 per gallon) and Calhoun County ($3.78 per gallon)
• Mid-range: Kalamazoo and St. Joseph counties ($3.83), Allegan County ($3.84)

The variation reflects different fuel blend allowances across counties, with some areas still operating under the state's pre-emergency restrictions.

EPA Waiver Context

The United States Environmental Protection Agency has issued a temporary waiver of federal vapor pressure requirements to allow the production, distribution, and sale of different gasoline blends. Executive Order 2026-4 brings Michigan in line with the EPA waiver, enabling access to a broader pool of gasoline and saving motorists money.

The waiver was issued as part of the Biden administration's efforts to address high fuel costs nationwide, though some analysts attribute the primary driver of Michigan's price increases to federal tariffs that the EPA does not control.

What's Next

The emergency declaration will continue until further notice from the governor's office. State officials expect the order to provide meaningful relief to Michigan drivers while the broader national price situation stabilizes.

The governor's office has not indicated whether additional counties will be added to the waiver as conditions change, though the flexibility of the emergency declaration allows for adjustments based on ongoing monitoring of gas prices and fuel availability across the state.

Broader Context

This energy emergency declaration represents one of several actions Governor Whitmer has taken to address economic concerns in Michigan. Earlier in April, the governor issued proclamations for Second Chance Month, Medicaid Awareness Month, and Sexual Assault Awareness Month, while also directing state agencies to assess the impact of federal tariffs on Michigan industries and help businesses get refunds.

The gas price relief measures come as the Michigan legislature continues working on budget and policy issues, with lawmakers also grappling with special elections and legislative reforms that could reshape the state's political landscape.